In the Land of Things: "Argo" - unexpectedly well directed political thriller

When the name "Ben Affleck" appear on the screen, one usually knows what to expect. Affleck as an actor does not really get many compliments. But when he decides to direct others - ah - that's a different story. His several other projects have brought him exactly to the place he is at right now. Praised and awarded, established, well-to-do, influential director - that's what he is, when promoting "Argo." The movie itself is a wonderful political thriller with solid background actors: magnificent John Goodman and Alan Arkin, along with Bryan Cranston, Tate Donovan and Scoot McNairy. Affleck plays the main character, but although his acting lacks passion and vigour, he doesn't spoil everything.
"Argo" is about a very imaginative covert operation led by the CIA in the beginning of 1980 in Tehran (Iran). Historians will remember that it was an extremely difficult time to be American and be there personally, as Shah Reza Pahlavi, supported by the US had to flee Iran and leave the spot for Ajatollah Khomeini - a religious and political leader. The hostage situation in an American embassy requires certain controversial actions from the CIA, and exfil agent Tony Mendez (Affleck) thinks of an ingenious plan to get the six escapees currently living in the house of Canadian ambassador out of Tehran safely. In order to do that, he establishes a hoax production of a B-class sci-fi movie called "Argo," that is supposed to be shot in locations around Tehran.
The movie is very enjoyable and thrilling to watch, although critics say it's rather nationalistic and one-sided. Of course it doesn't tell the whole story, it's just inspired by real events, but nevertheless one can sense the echoing of "All the President's Men" and "Munich," and that actually is the best recommendation there is.
My review here.